MUS 2214 Basics for Jazz Improvisation

Description:

The course puts emphasis on the tools of jazz improvisation in a concrete performance and composition in a jazz situation. Melody writing is done from the smallest fragments such as periods, phrases/motifs, and a group of fragments woven into symmetrical patterns. The rhythm section is specially worked on as the heart of the improvising group: pulse, meter, rhythmic accents, sympathetic balance, rhythmic swing, and harmony. All the above are put together in constant and regular practicing sessions.

Objectives:

  1. To develop skills in melody writing
  2. To master the rhythm section of jazz
  3. To develop improvisational skills, which are basic to any jazz musical style
  4. To develop skills of utilizing all musical styles exposed to the students as raw materials for composing and performing jazz

Course Outline

Topic 1: Improvisation as a Musical Concept

Topic 2:Improvisation Vs Composition

Topic 3:Improvisation in Ugandan Ethnic Music

Topic 4:Stage Improvisation

Topic 5:Listening, Analyzing, and Practicing Some Ugandan Traditional Music and Ways in which It Relates to the Basic Tools of Jazz Improvisation

Topic 6:Types of jazz Music

Topic 7: Appreciation of Jazz Music through Listening and Practicing Exercises

Topic 8:Chord Progressions and Melodic Construction

Topic 9:Form, Tempo: Steady, Double Timing, Half Timing, Quadruple Timing, Stop Timing

Topic 10: Beginning and Ending a Piece, Skills of the Improviser

Topic 11:Instrument Roles: Bass, Piano, Drums, Soloist

Learning Outcomes

  1. Ability to create melodies in jazz music style
  2. Ability to use steadiness and various types of timing in jazz music
  3. Ability to make use the four basic jazz instrumental sections in their jazz performances
  4. Ability to transform Ugandan ethnic/traditional and all musics exposed to students so far into composing and performing jazz
  5. Ability to utilize all musical sounds that the students have been exposed to as raw materials for jazz

Methods of Teaching/Delivery

Lectures, tutorials, demonstrations, singing, group and individual assignments, Individual meetings with the course instructor

Modes of Assessment

Course Work:

  • Attendance and Participation in class Discussions: 5%
  • Weekly Assignments: 20%
  • Mid-semester test: 15%

Final Examination

Project: 30%

Written: 30%

Selected Readings

Berliner, Paul. 1994. Thinking in Jazz: The Infinite Art of Improvisation (Chicago Studies in Ethnomusicology Series). Chicago: Chicago University Press.

Coker, Jerry. 1991. Elements of the Jazz Language for the Developing Improvisor. Miami, FL: CPP/Belwin.

.1987. Improvising Jazz. New York: Simon & Schuster.

Fewll, Garrison. 2005. Jazz Improvisation for Guitar: A Melodic Approach. Boston: Berkley Press

Haerle, Dan. 1982. The Jazz Language: A Theory Text for Jazz Composition and Improvisation. New York: Alfred Publishing.

LaPorta, John. 2000. Guide to Jazz Improvisation: Bass Clef Instruments. Boston: Berkley

Miller, Donald. 2008. Jazz Notes: Improvisations on Blue Like Jazz. Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

Rwalins, Robert. And Nor EddineBahha. 2005. Jazzology: The Encyclopedia of Jazz Theory for All Musicians (Jazz Instruction). Milwaukee: Hal Leonard Corp.

Waite, Brian. 1992. Modern Jazz Piano: A Study In Harmony And Improvisation. Boston:Hal Leonard Corp.